Slaves were formed in 2013 in Maidstone, Kent. Guitarist Laurie Vincent and drummer Isaac Holman were inspired by Crass, Refused, and Joy Division among others. The pair play a harsh, vicious, cathartic and a unique British sound. They play stripped-down sets with just one electric guitar and a stripped- down drum setup. The band's sound is somewhat comparable to the more modern acts Gallows and Iceage.
The duo's debut EP, Sugar Coated Bitter Truth, was released in 2013. Slave’s debut full-length Are You Satisfied? saw release in 2015 and later, returned in 2018 with their third LP, Acts of Fear and Love. It was produced by Jolyon Thomas (U2, Royal Blood).